Maulana Fazlur Rehman Demands Arrest of Maulana Idrees’ Killers, Announces Nationwide Protests After Friday Prayers

CHARSADDA / ISLAMABAD — Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman has demanded the immediate arrest of those responsible for the killing of renowned religious scholar and former MPA Maulana Muhammad Idrees, announcing nationwide protest demonstrations on May 8 following Friday prayers.
Maulana Fazlur Rehman visited the residence of the slain scholar in Charsadda to offer condolences and pay tribute to the deceased. Speaking to the media, he strongly condemned the killing, stating that murdering a Muslim over a difference of opinion is an act of sheer ignorance, and that Maulana Idrees’ martyrdom is a profound loss for the entire Muslim Ummah.
“Allah Almighty will avenge the oppressors in His own way,” Maulana Fazlur Rehman said, adding that the scholar had fallen victim to violence while striving for peace.
The JUI chief reaffirmed that the religious scholars stand firmly with Pakistan’s Constitution and that there is a unanimous decision among them that taking up arms within Pakistan is impermissible.
Directing sharp remarks at the government and state institutions, Maulana Fazlur Rehman said, “Do not draw salaries without fulfilling your duties. It is the obligation of the institutions to arrest the killers of this martyr.”
The announcement of countrywide protests is expected to draw significant public participation, reflecting widespread grief and anger over the targeted killing of the prominent cleric.